About Kern Equestrian Academy
Our Mission
Our Equestrian Academy in Bakersfield is dedicated to showcasing the talents of our riders and horses at the highest level of competition, while proudly representing our local community, Kern County, and the state of California. Our mission is to provide top-notch training and instruction to our riders, ensuring they have the skills and confidence to excel in the show ring. We aim to foster a supportive and inclusive environment where riders can grow both personally and professionally, and where our horses receive the utmost care and attention. Through our commitment to excellence and our passion for equestrian sports, we strive to be a shining example of the equestrian community in Bakersfield and beyond.
Meet our team
Nicolas Rossi - Head Trainer & C.E.O.
Nicolas Rossi is an accomplished equestrian with a diverse background in coaching, riding, and showing. With over a decade of coaching experience and a certification as an FEI Coach, Nicolas's teaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of a strong horsemanship foundation, balance, communication, and enjoyment of the sport.
Born into a horse-loving family in Uruguay, he inherited his passion for horses from his father, Jorge Rossi, a retired army captain and renowned Grand-Prix rider. Nicolas's career has included both competitive riding and coaching, beginning at his father's riding school in Uruguay and continuing in the US after he moved there in 2004 to pursue his Olympic dream. He represented Uruguay internationally in both showjumping and eventing.
Following the completion of the FEI Level 1 Coaching Course in 2009, Nicolas worked at the Martin-McAllister barn, gaining valuable experience under top Grand-Prix rider Jenni Martin-McAllister and Steve McAllister. He later joined Sterckx Stables as Assistant Trainer, where he became familiar with the European coaching system.
In 2015, Nicolas established Rossi Equestrian, aiming to produce smart, independent riders who can be successful at every level of riding. Two years later, he founded Kern Equestrian Academy, a mission-driven organization dedicated to showcasing riders and horses at the highest level of competition while proudly representing Kern County and California.
Kern Equestrian Academy is committed to providing top-notch training and instruction, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for personal and professional growth, and ensuring the utmost care for their horses. As a shining example of the equestrian community in Bakersfield and beyond, the academy's dedication to excellence and passion for equestrian sports has earned it recognition, including gold star barn awards in 2022 and 2023 at the Paso Robles Horse Show and the Best of 2023 Distinguished Teaching award for the best riding school in Bakersfield.
With his exceptional background, passion for horses, and commitment to excellence, Nicolas Rossi continues to inspire and guide riders to reach their full potential.
